Skeletal muscle hypertrophy induced by KAATSU training and its molecular mechanisms and application to older adults with sarcopenia

2015 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 24300189
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (B)
• Allocation Type: Partial Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Research Field: Rehabilitation science/Welfare engineering
• Research Institution: Dokkyo Medical University (2015); The University of Tokyo (2012-2014)
• Principal Investigator: Nakajima Toshiaki 獨協医科大学, 医学部, 教授 (50227790)
• Co-Investigator(Renkei-kenkyūsha): KANO YUTAKA 電気通信大学, 情報理工学(系)研究科, 教授 (90293133)
• Project Period (FY): 2012-04-01 – 2016-03-31
• Keywords: sarcopenia / anti-aging / muscle hypertrophy / Kaatsu training / rat skeletal muscle / 高齢者 / 筋蛋白質合成系 / ミトコンドリア

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Sarcopenia, the loss of muscle mass, is an important problem in the older population. We have performed several clinical and basic researches. (1) Effects of KAATSU training using low-intensity resistance exercise, using either resistance machines or elastic bands on muscle strength/mass and its safety in older adults. We found that KAATSU training, even using elastic bands for resistance, enhanced muscle activation and increases muscle strength and mass in older subjects. (2) Basic studies using rat KAATSU model. Acute low-intensity isometric electrical contractions under restrction of muscle blood flow (RMBF) significantly decreased microvascular pO2, and enhanced phosphorylation of mTOR signaling including ribosomal protein S6, compared with control. And, this EMS stimulation under RMBF significantly enhanced muscle strength/mass and enhanced skeletal muscle oxidative capacity, glucose/monocarboxylate transporter, and mitochondrial biogenesis in rat KAATSU model.

Free Research Field

rehabilitation